From London to Stonehenge: A Complete Travel Guide Including Trains and Buses

How to Reach the Iconic Stones: Exploring Public Transport, Tours, and Driving Options

A journey from London to Stonehenge is more than just a trip; it’s a dive into the past, exploring one of the world’s most ancient sites.

In this guide, we cover all the practical information you need to travel from London to Stonehenge, including transport options like trains, buses, cars, and guided tours to ensure your adventure is as enchanting as the destination itself.

Where is Stonehenge?

Stonehenge is situated on the Salisbury Plain in Wiltshire, England, known for its lush landscapes and significant historical sites. This prehistoric monument, consisting of a ring of standing stones, has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1986.

How Far Away is Stonehenge?

From the heart of London, Stonehenge is approximately 90 miles (about 145 kilometres) away. The journey’s distance can vary slightly depending on your starting point in London and the route taken.

How Long Does it Take to Get There?

By Car: Travelling by car from London to Stonehenge typically takes around 2 hours, but this can vary based on traffic conditions, especially during peak travel times or on bank holidays.
By Coach: Direct coach services can take approximately 2 to 2.5 hours. Coaches, offering a direct route without the need for transfers, provide a convenient option for travellers.
By Train: The journey to Stonehenge via train involves travelling to Salisbury, the nearest train station, which takes about 1.5 hours from London Waterloo. From Salisbury, visitors can take a bus or taxi to Stonehenge, adding another 30 to 45 minutes to the trip.

Distances and Directions from Key Locations to Stonehenge

Stonehenge From London: Approximately 145 km (90 miles) to the west. The most direct route typically involves taking the M3 and A303 roads, leading you through some scenic parts of southern England.
Stonehenge From Heathrow Airport: Around 135 km (about 84 miles) west. Travellers can take the M25, M3, and A303 roads to reach Stonehenge, with the journey offering views of the English countryside.
Stonehenge From Bath: Stonehenge is about 56 km (35 miles) to the east of Bath. The journey mainly involves the A36 and A303 roads, taking you through picturesque landscapes.
Stonehenge From Windsor: Situated roughly 100 km (about 62 miles) to the west. The quickest route would be via the M4 and A303, which is a pleasant drive with views of the Thames Valley and rural England.
Stonehenge From Southampton: Only 55 km (about 34 miles) away to the north. The M27 and A36 provide a direct route, making it a relatively short and straightforward trip.

Taking the Train from London to Stonehenge

Travelling from London to Stonehenge by train is a convenient and scenic option that allows visitors to enjoy the beauty of the English countryside. The journey involves a train ride to Salisbury, the closest train station to Stonehenge, followed by a short bus or taxi ride to the site.

Overview of Train Routes to Salisbury

Starting Station: The primary departure point in London is Waterloo Station, which offers direct services to Salisbury.
Train Services: Operated by South Western Railway, trains to Salisbury run frequently throughout the day, with the journey taking approximately 1.5 hours.
Destination: Salisbury Station serves as your gateway to Stonehenge, located around 15 km (9 miles) from the monument.

Step-by-Step Guide on Catching the Train

Ticket Purchase: Tickets can be bought in advance online through the National Rail website or directly at Waterloo Station. Purchasing tickets in advance can often secure you a better deal.
Departure Times: Check the latest train schedules on the day of your trip. Trains to Salisbury run regularly, but it’s always best to verify times, especially on weekends or public holidays.
Travel Tips:
- Consider off-peak travel for lower fares and a quieter journey.
- Keep an eye on rail service updates for any changes to schedules or potential disruptions.

Connecting from Salisbury to Stonehenge

Bus Options: The Stonehenge Tour Bus, also known as The Stonehenge Tour, operates from Salisbury train station and provides direct access to the Stonehenge Visitor Centre. This hop-on, hop-off service includes an optional audio tour, offering fascinating insights into the history and landscape of the area.
Taxi Services: Taxis are available outside Salisbury Station for those preferring a direct and private mode of transport to Stonehenge. The taxi ride takes approximately 20 minutes, depending on traffic conditions.

Are there hop-on hop-off buses from London or Salisbury?

No direct hop-on hop-off buses run from London to Stonehenge. However, from Salisbury, the Stonehenge Tour operates as a hop-on hop-off service, offering a convenient way for visitors to reach Stonehenge directly from Salisbury, including an optional audio guide for a comprehensive experience of the area.

Tours from London to Stonehenge

Bus tours from London to Stonehenge provide a seamless and educational journey to one of the UK’s most iconic landmarks. These tours are an excellent option for those looking to explore Stonehenge without the hassle of navigating public transport or driving. Direct bus tours typically depart from central London locations, offering a comfortable and straightforward route to Stonehenge. These tours vary in duration and may include stops at other notable sites along the way.

Benefits of Choosing a Bus Tour

Guided Information: Most bus tours come with live guides or audio commentary, enriching your visit with historical contexts and fascinating facts about Stonehenge.
Convenience: Bus tours handle all the logistics, including transportation and entry tickets, allowing you to relax and enjoy the experience.

How to Select the Best Bus Tour

Itinerary: Consider what you want from your trip. Some tours offer Stonehenge as part of a broader visit to other attractions, while others focus solely on the monument.
Inclusions: Look for tours that include entry fees to Stonehenge and any additional sites to ensure there are no hidden costs.
Reviews: Reading past attendees’ reviews can provide insight into the quality of the tour and the experience offered.

We have selected a few tours for your consideration below. For a more comprehensive list of options and detailed information, please visit our Stonehenge Tours page.

Which Companies Offer Bus Tours from London to Stonehenge?

Several companies offer bus tours from London to Stonehenge, each providing various packages that might include additional stops at other historical sites or cultural landmarks. Some of the well-known companies offering these tours include:

Golden Tours: Known for a wide range of sightseeing tours, Golden Tours offers trips to Stonehenge, often combined with visits to other destinations like Bath, Windsor, or Oxford.
The English Bus: Specialising in smaller, more intimate group tours, The English Bus provides tours to Stonehenge, Bath, and the Cotswolds, offering a more personalised experience.
Evan Evans Tours: As one of the oldest and most reputable tour operators in London, Evan Evans Tours offers luxury coach trips to Stonehenge, with options to explore Windsor, Bath, and Lacock.
Premium Tours: Offering a variety of Stonehenge experiences, including private viewings and early access to the inner circle, Premium Tours caters to those looking for a more exclusive visit.
Anderson Tours: Anderson Tours is another option for day trips to Stonehenge, often including stops at other significant locations like Salisbury, Avebury, or Bath.
Viator and GetYourGuide: These platforms aggregate various Stonehenge tours provided by different operators, giving you a broad spectrum of options, including some of the tour operators mentioned above. This allows you to take advantage of comparing prices, itineraries, and reviews in one place to make the best choice for your trip.

Driving to Stonehenge from London

Embarking on a road trip from London to Stonehenge not only allows you to enjoy the scenic beauty of the English countryside at your own pace but also provides the flexibility to explore other attractions along the way. Here’s what you need to know if you decide to drive:

Best Routes to Take and Estimated Driving Time

Main Route: The most straightforward route from London to Stonehenge is via the M3 and A303 highways. This journey takes you through picturesque landscapes and past historical towns, making it a scenic drive.
Estimated Driving Time: The drive typically takes around 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on traffic conditions and your starting location in London.
Using Navigation Apps: To assist with your journey, consider using navigational apps to find the best route and stay updated on traffic conditions:
- Google Maps is a widely used option offering reliable directions and estimated arrival times.
- For a more local experience, try the Waze app. Many drivers in the UK prefer Waze for its community-driven updates on traffic, road hazards, and speed checks. The app is particularly useful for real-time traffic information and route adjustments, ensuring you can navigate around delays and reach Stonehenge with ease.

Car Rental Options

In London: A variety of car rental agencies operate in London, offering everything from compact cars to luxury vehicles. Rental locations are available at airports, train stations, and city centres.
Booking Tips: Compare prices online and book in advance to secure the best deal. Consider rental packages that include insurance and unlimited mileage to avoid unexpected costs.

Parking Facilities at Stonehenge

Visitor Centre Parking: Stonehenge has a dedicated parking area at the visitor centre, which is free for visitors who have purchased a ticket to enter Stonehenge. During peak times, it’s advisable to arrive early as spaces can fill up quickly.
Additional Information: Parking tickets are issued upon entry and must be validated or paid for at the visitor centre.

Tips for Driving in the UK for International Visitors

Drive on the Left: Remember, in the UK, you must drive on the left side of the road.
Speed Limits: Speed limits vary by road type and are posted in miles per hour. Urban areas typically have a limit of 30 mph, while motorways and dual carriageways allow for up to 70 mph.
Seat Belts: Seat belt use is mandatory for all passengers.
Navigational Aids: Using a GPS or smartphone app for navigation can be incredibly helpful, especially for navigating the rural roads near Stonehenge.

athea

Athea is an avid traveler with a passion for exploring the world's hidden gems. With a keen interest in cultural exploration, Athea delves deep into each destination's history, traditions, and local cuisine. From bustling markets to serene landscapes, Athea is on a constant quest to uncover unique experiences and share them with fellow travellers.

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